Off The Beaten Path in Paris – 5 Must Do’s in The City of Light!

Paris, one of the most famous and beautiful cities in the world: We are all aware of the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, but what about those secret, lesser known must sees that are hidden within the historic city?

OFF THE BEATEN PATH IN PARIS

1. Covered Passages

The covered passages of Paris are an existing remnant of the rise of the middle classes during the Nineteenth Century. These quaint passages can be described as early incarnations of indoor department stores and malls. Less than thirty of these passages still exist in modern-day Paris.

Two of the most famous can be found behind the Palais Royal – the Galerie Vivienne and nearby Galerie Colbert. It’s a wonderful way to experience old culture and a perfect spot to visit when it rains.

2. Canal St. Martin

The picturesque Canal St. Martin is often overlooked by many first time visitors in favor of sites with bigger names, but Parisian locals will tell you it’s hard to find a more beautiful spot in the entire city. The calm and quiet location is perfect for an evening stroll with a loved one. Visitors who enjoy a more structured approach can join one of the walking tours available in the area or hop on a Canauxrama barge for a ride on the canal.

3. Marché de l’Olive

The Rue Riquet neighborhood, languidly stretching from the edge of the 18th arrondissement to the end of the quay of the canal in the 19th arrondissement, was noted as an area famous for its collection of bustling Asian supermarkets and slew of smoke-filled bars and cafés.

The covered Marché La Chapelle is one of the more favored local spots where tourists or foodies can pick up batches of delicious fried tofu, ingredients for Korean staple Kimchi, and other eclectic Asian delights one would normally have trouble finding at the traditional markets.

4. Charming Belleville

Home to one of the city’s more alluring Chinatowns, Belleville has a charm all its own and a distinct bohemian feel. Originally the area was a wine-making village where locals would meet up at country cafes known as guinguettes. Now it’s a working class neighborhood, a mix of cultures and cuisines, and a haven for artists.

Artists and craftsmen in Belleville excelled in everything from woodworking, painting, performance arts, sculptures, photography, video displays, as well as other popular forms of modern street art and graffiti. The Portes Ouvertes des Ateliers de Belleville takes place each May. Artists open their doors for a few days to interested onlookers and tourists, showcasing their work and studio space.

Make time to visit the popular Parc des Buttes Chaumont and the lesser known Parc de Belleville,which happens to be the highest park in all of Paris. If you don’t mind the climb, you’ll be rewarded with fabulous panoramic views of the city!

5. Roman Ruins

Known as Lutetia by the Romans, many hints of Paris’ ancient past are scattered throughout the city. They include a coliseum, pillars, walls and even thermal baths. The Roman Baths at Cluny and the Archaeological Crypt located near Notre Dame both hold interesting secrets and discoveries about the city’s Roman history.

The Roman amphitheatre, Les Arènes de Lutèce is one of the most intact examples. Today, it’s for concerts and the impromptu game of petanque. More info on a self-guided tour of Roman Paris can be found here.

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Off The Beaten Path in Paris – 5 Must Do’s in The City of Light! was last modified: May 1st, 2017 by robin